CAFE NEA

BY KATE WHITE & D.R LENNOX

Lunch Box Cucina

Lunch Box Cucina is a Greek lunchbox delight, with an array of traditional Mediterranean food, delicious sweets and homemade dips – the kind of cafe that can be called upon at any time of day. The Mousaka, salads and traditional menu options require little fanfare; the food is hearty, ingredients fresh and all are homemade and taste exceptional. The deli-like set-up is overwhelming at first with too many temptations on offer, while the retro-inspired window display automatically captures the attention of the local foot traffic. The Lunch Box Cucina experience is not that far removed from a Mediterranean holiday. An empty stomach beforehand is recommended.

Shop 4, 3-7 Myahgah Mews, Mosman

Lunch Box Espresso

Lunch Box Espresso is the epitome of an ideal café: picturesque and quaint with a welcoming blue and white canopy. The house-roasted coffee beans ensure an expertly executed espresso, while the food on offer is nothing short of a delight; the muffins are simply the best to be found north of the Harbour Bridge, with pumpkin and spinach and apple and mixed berry regular favourites. Sandwiches and other tasty morning treats are available for a quick breakfast option, but it is the coffee that attracts the morning masses and the beyond friendly service you receive.

Shop 1, 3 / 7 Myaygah Mews, Mosman

Bello Cafe

Bello Cafe is not your regular inner-city lunchtime cafe. With menu options including fetta penne with prosciutto, wild mushroom risotto and pork san choy bow, it is far removed from the run-of-the-mill sandwich jaunts. If you’d prefer to take in the early summer sun and take the short stroll to Circular Quay, the double smoked ham sandwich, with tomatoes and provolone cheese is a good option. An award-winning Schibello coffee is also ideal. The staff are friendly and while popular, Bello is never inundated ensuring a more relaxed vibe.

Shop 3, 38 – 42, Corner Bridge and Loftus Streets

Dee Jay’s Cafeé

The space allotted to Stefano at what was once Hot Sip Café may not be that big, but apart from being a barista he is also a DJ so is used to working in a confined space. And much like in his DJ work, Stefano doesn’t allow the space to limit his creativity. Like he says, coffee never sounded so good! Dee Jay’s has some of the best Greek food in Bondi Junction, from an assortment of sweets to chicken yeeros, and Greek coffee – traditional and iced. The homemeade hamburgers and chicken foccacias are also recommended. Dee Jay’s can also cater your office Xmas party and Stefano is available to provide the soundtrack.

31-33 Spring Street, Bondi Junction

Zellini’s

Classic and sophisticated, Zellini’s is more an experience than simple cafe. A Randwick staple, it offers a high quality menu that is varied and impressive. The breakfast options are premium, however, if you have to do breakfast on the run, the raisin and cinnamon toast with icing sugar is a must. While Zellini’s is famed for its commitment to coffee and beautiful cakes, another strong element is the staff – they know the ins and outs of everything, from their macchiato mousse cake to the most appropriate wine for dinner. Outdoor seating is popular, but inside is an architectural treat: chic, low-hanging lights, a trendy bar and beautifully polished floorboards.